Fighting History of SF Chinatown

Explore the alleys of the oldest and most storied Chinatown

The Fighting History

History

Learn what life was like here in the mid 1800s, when you would have had a 1 in 5 chance of dying within 6 months or arriving in San Francisco.

 

Bruce

Bruce Lee born in SF Chinatown, grew up in Hong Kong and returned at 18. His experiences would help shape his identity and change martial arts forever.

 

Tong Wars

Hear stories of the Tong Wars, gangs, and the role of the dark economy in world events. The Tongs were formidable and shaped SF Chinatown.

 

  • About the Tour

    We'll start our walking tour outside a local coffee shop on the edge of Chinatown and talk for a few minutes before heading into Chinatown. We'll cover about 1.5 miles total so wear comfortable walking shoes. Total tour time is 2 hours.

     

    WARNING: This tour includes candid discussions of historical events and covers mature subject matter and may not be suitable for children or sensitive adults.

     

    Our commitment to safety

    We are committed to your safety and practice CDC-recommended COVID-19 safety protocols including:

    • limiting group size to a maximum of 10 people
    • adhering to social distancing guidelines
    • ensuring that all participants wear a mask
    • When possible, we encourage you to organize and book a private tour with people you know

    Note: DO NOT book this tour if you are unwilling or unable to wear a mask. Failure to comply with our safety guidelines will result in you and your party being asked to leave.

     

    Where we'll meet

     

    Réveille Coffee Co. 200 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133

    Book Tour Now

  • From Chinatown's beginnings during the San Francisco Gold Rush through the Civil War, bubonic plague, a flu pandemic, the 1906 earthquake, depressions, racism, and violence, generations of Chinese have persevered and Chinatown has endured.

     

    Explore the alleys of the oldest and most storied Chinatown with Marc as we journey through time with stories of the brutal and the beautiful, unfathomable adversity versus incredible courage and creativity.

     

    You'll emerge with fresh perspective and appreciation for how far we've come. The stories we'll share just may change the way you think about Chinatown, San Francisco, and the nature of our humanity, forever.